Many Americans have thyroid issues that have yet to be diagnosed. However, there are many symptoms that you may be experiencing that should warrant a doctor’s visit. Your doctor may be able to diagnose you and offer you a treatment plan.
Getting Diagnosed With a Thyroid Condition
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. It produces a hormone known as TH (thyroid hormone), which plays a vital role in the functioning of our bodies. An imbalance in this hormone can affect various aspects of our lives, such as our energy levels, mood, cholesterol levels, and heart rate.
Many of the symptoms of a condition known as hypothyroidism resemble those of other illnesses. This is why it’s important to get your symptoms checked by your doctor. They may offer a hypothyroidism natural treatment or medication. Underactive thyroids are referred to as the “Great Masquerader” and do not show any visible symptoms or signs.
1. Significant Weight Changes Without Habit Changes
If you’re experiencing unexplained and significant weight changes, it could be due to either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, the body produces too much of a hormone known as thyroxine, which helps speed up the metabolism of the body. On the other hand, hypothyroidism prevents the body from producing enough thyroxine, which helps with weight gain.
2. Your Appearance Has Changed
Aside from fluctuating weight, look for other signs of a possible issue like a change in your appearance. The changes may present as a red or dry skin tone, a puffy face, and swelling at the base of your neck. Although these may be normal skin problems, if you’re not seeing any improvement, it’s important to get your thyroid checked.
3. You Feel Miserable
Aside from your physical appearance, your hormones also play a huge role in your mental health and well-being. When hyperthyroidism is present, it can cause you to feel irritable, anxious, and nervous. On the other hand, hypothyroidism can lead to depression.
4. You’re Always Feeling Tired
When hyperthyroidism is present, it can make it hard for you to fall asleep at night, which can lead to fatigue. On the other hand, hypothyroidism can cause your body to waste all of its energy. Both conditions can cause muscle weakness, which can make you feel tired and worn out.
5. You Have Trouble Regulating Your Body Temperature
When hyperthyroidism is present, it can cause people to feel like they’re sweating a lot. On the other hand, hypothyroidism can cause the body to produce too much of the thyroxine hormone. This imbalance can lead to both too much heat and insufficient energy.
Having too much weight can also affect an individual’s sensitivity to cold and heat. Individuals with underactive thyroids are more prone to being obese or overweight, which can make them feel hot. On the other hand, those with an overactive thyroid will be able to maintain their weight and gain fat, which will make them more sensitive to cold.
6. You Miss Periods and Are Not Pregnant
Women’s fertility and menstrual cycle can be affected by thyroid issues. For instance, hypothyroidism can prevent the release of eggs, which are needed for ovulation. This can impair a woman’s overall fertility. Women with low thyroid levels are at an increased risk of experiencing miscarriage or preeclampsia. Those who have too much thyroxine can experience postpartum thyroiditis and period loss.
Non-Visible Symptoms of Thyroid Issues
Although you may not be experiencing any of the symptoms of a thyroid disorder, it’s still possible to have it. A thyroid nodule is not always easy to diagnose. Sometimes, patients will notice a lump or a bump on their neck, while their doctor may also see a lump during a physical exam.
A thyroid nodule is often found incidentally during an imaging test for other conditions. It can then be picked up through MRI or CT scans. Having a thyroid nodule caught early can decrease your chances of having an overactive thyroid. It can also help you detect other conditions, such as cancer.
Final Thoughts
If you suspect that you have a thyroid disorder, you should consult your doctor. If you notice a change in the appearance of your thyroid, then you should also consult a medical professional for their professional opinion.